Table 3.

How to assess a randomized trial

Will the results be valid?

How will potential sources of bias be avoided?

What is the justification for the hypothesis underlying the power calculations?

Will the results be applicable?

Has sufficient account been taken within the study design of the issues of generalizability and representativeness?

Is the trial population reflective of the target population so that the results will have meaning?

Have the outcome measures been well chosen and adequately defined?